The Potions

[Ramona's POV]

His white robes floated in the soft breeze. He had a long silver sword across his back, and a thin staff was resting in the crook of his arm. He turned to look at me and grinned. I returned the phoney smile and stepped in closer.

"Dad, my mother asked me to make you breakfast," I said, handing him the lunchbox while sounding anxious.

He took the box from me and nodded. I felt a sigh of relief when he asked no questions. Instead, he raised the cover and started eating the sandwich underneath. I studied him silently for a long moment before clearing my throat. "So, what happened? Have you succeeded in capturing one more dragon? Is there anything new to share?

He shook his head lazily and used the serviette to dab at the food. He replied, "To be honest, nothing too thrilling." "We did not discover anything new."

I breathed a silent exhale. Dad has searched for new sightings of dragons for years. He would instantly alert me whenever he found one, telling me it was a new kind that he had caught. I knew he was incredibly devoted.

I frowned at the black mark on his forehead. His complexion was paler than usual, and his hairline seemed longer than usual. He looked exhausted, but there was a faint sparkle in his eyes that reminded me of how much more alive his grins used to be, how bright they used to be when he was younger and full of energy.Anxiety took hold of me. I tenderly touched his forehead and looked up at his tired face. "Why, at this age, are you still working so hard?" Quietly, I asked.

A small smile flickered over his lips. That's what I've always done, Mona. "I'll do everything in my power to help my family if I can work until my old bones fall off," he answered bluntly.

"Even if it means having to part from you?" I asked, knowing the answer already, but wanting to hear him say it. He seemed sad as he placed his fingers under my chin and brought my face up to his blue eyes again. "Your sister was deaf even though she had a Lustre level spiritual energy from birth and could cast powerful charms and enchantments to regulate emotions or erect walls to defend herself. You, on the other hand, possess spiritual energy at the Flicker level from birth. You two are alone with each other in this universe. You rely on your sister because I know you are capable. So quit wasting your time worrying about me, Mona. He smiled and gave my forehead a kiss. As for Annalisa, she will shortly become a Divine and be admitted to Petrus Academy. My worry for you stems solely from my desire for you to lead a happy life. Do you understand? With a piercing gaze into my brown eyes, he added.

Embarrassed that dad was scolding me, I nodded. I realised that he wasn't angry with me; rather, he was just frustrated with the weak, dependent woman I had become. My younger sibling has always had a better life than I have. I blinked again, forcing myself not to cry, then took my handkerchief and wiped the black stain from his forehead. It was his Crystal Vein mark, set deep into his skin in a design reminiscent of the delicate, branching lines seen naturally in rubies. The mark's colour may change depending on his emotional state or magical prowess.

When he was finished, he brought me his meal, which he had wrapped. I was about to get it and get up to head to the academy when he stopped me. He asked, "Did you learn all the spells I told you about last week?"

I nodded gradually. "Yes, I did, but I still haven't been able to cast one."

He interrupted me with a cheek slap. "Mona, please stop teasing me," he yelled. "Learn those magic skills quickly before it's too late!" he said, his hands still firmly gripping mine. I made an effort not to show my tiny grimace. There was seriousness in his face. He chastised, "Daughter, do not be lazy!" I winced, grimaced, and nodded emphatically. He sighed and rested a soft hand on my shoulder.

He said, "Now tell me all the kinds of sapphire stone magic." I stared, bewildered. "Go ahead! Just remember the spell," he pleaded. I sighed deeply and attempted to come up with the precise spell he was searching for.

Sapphire is a valuable stone in magic because it contains a wide range of elemental powers. For example, the elements of fire, water, air, light, and earth make up Saphira's stone. This type of magic is extremely potent. The justification for its alternate name, "Elemental Fire." Turned into sapphire stone, it creates lightning bolts and destructive spells, I added quietly.

Dad stroked his chin. After a few moments of silence, he asked, "How much energy does this kind of stone take?" I furrowed my brows, waiting for an answer. "A minimum of ten thousand times. However, due to its high mana requirements, Arcane Blue is preferred by most sorcerers. They are believed to be magic stones with greater potency.

"What is the energy content of these Arcane Blue?" Dad asked in a quiet tone.

My voice was soft and comforting as I spoke. "It has a lot of energy, and it makes a very effective defensive spell when combined with quartz." I paused to think of a spell before responding, "It also holds healing properties, which makes it a good ingredient in potions."

And just how does that operate? Dad applied pressure.

"It's mostly used in potions and healing spells," I clarified. I checked the time on my watch. It was 7:10 in the morning. "Should I not be going?" I asked. "We meet at nine in the morning." I said, trying not to cry, as I had to maintain my cool.

Dad dismissed my question completely, saying, "Answer my two questions, and then you're free to go," in a calm response. I bit my lip and nodded. I took a deep breath, assuming he would ask straightforward questions. Dad is very strict about my magical studies, and he doesn't hesitate to correct me when I make mistakes. Panicked, I swallowed. "What is the purpose of combining quartz and an Arcane Blue magical stone in a healing potion?" Dad asked.

I nodded, erratically. I said, "All right," but as my mind went blank, my voice faltered. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes before I started to explain.

"The gorgeous Arcane Blue Quartz gemstone has a deep azure hue that is flecked with sparkling silver inclusions. It combines the ethereal features of Arcane Blue stone with the versatile qualities of quartz to create a powerful ingredient for healing potions.

Enchanted attributes:

1. Healing Resonance: Arcane blue quartz resonates with healing energies due to its inherent magical properties. When paired with medications, its gentle, pulsating aura expedites the body's natural healing processes. This resonance harmonises with the body's energy systems, facilitating rapid healing from wounds and illnesses.

2. Energy Amplification:

Quartz is widely renowned for its ability to focus and amp up energy. When combined with the Arcane Blue stone, it enhances the potent's therapeutic effects and raises its overall effectiveness. The quartz heightens the magical properties of the Arcane Blue while also focussing and enhancing its healing properties.

3. Purification: The combined effects of quartz and arcane blue have a purifying effect. Arcane Blue's mystical properties counteract any bad energy or impurities, and quartz helps the body rid itself of impurities and toxins.

Potions' purposes include: 1. Infusion
When crushed into a fine powder and mixed into a potion, arcane blue quartz melts and unleashes its healing energy. The drink turns a vivid blue, with specks of shimmering light signifying the presence of the magical stone.

2. Prompt:
When applied topically or consumed, the energies of arcane blue quartz interact with the body to aid in the healing of damaged organs and tissues. Quartz's enhanced energy ensures that the healing effects take effect faster and with greater potency.

3. Localised Healing: When Arcane Blue Quartz is added to potions designed for specific kinds of injuries, its healing energy is concentrated on the wounded area. For example, in a bone-broken potion, quartz focusses on bone repair, whereas in an interior injury potion, it targets tissues and organs inside the body.

4. Effects on Equilibrium:
Quartz promotes equal healing by balancing the effects of the potion and avoiding overstimulation of the body's natural healing mechanisms. Potentially harmful outcomes, such as excessive tissue growth or energy imbalances, are prevented by finding a balance.

Usage: To use Arcane Blue Quartz in a potion, it must first be ground into a fine powder. Subsequently, the powder's magical properties are blended with the other components of the potion foundation, enabling them to function in perfect harmony.

1. Dosage: A small amount of powdered arcane blue quartz is usually enough for a single potion. For greater effects, combine it with other magical herbs and elements.

2. Application: The potion can be applied topically or ingested, depending on the kind of care that is required.

Excellent work! "I'll make additional enquiries after dinner," said Dad. He gave a firm order, "Go to the academy now, and don't be late."

I gave him a small nod and made my way quickly back to the academy grounds. When I was sufficiently away from his business, I let out a deep sigh, relieved that the exam was finally over and that there wouldn't be any more today. It had been really taxing.

I was walking up a trail when I suddenly halted and heard my name called. "Mona." I froze, then spun around and looked into those green eyes. Selene approached me with a frown. She stopped just in front of me and gave me a tiny scowl.